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Hyundai reveals all-new Sonata in South Korea

We’;ve seen the spy shots. We’;ve seen the teasers. We’;ve even seen the finished product uncovered in its home market. But now Hyundai has officially taken the wraps off its new Sonata, consistently one of its top sellers in North America that was surpassed only recently in the sales charts by the smaller, cheaper and slightly newer Elantra. It’;s Hyundai’;s challenger to the likes of the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion et al, which makes it a vital debut not only for Hyundai but for anyone in the market for a mid-size family sedan – and that’;s one of the biggest markets of all.

Set to be revealed at the New York Auto Show in a matter of mere weeks, the all-new 2015 Hyundai Sonata you see here is the latest representation of a more toned-down family design language which Hyundai calls Fluidic Sculpture 2.0, following the lead set by the new Genesis and away from the swoopy and sharply creased styling of the successful but stylistically divisive model it replaces. A good inch longer and wider than the outgoing Sonata, the new model is also over a third more rigid, thanks in no small part to the use of high-strength steel that now composes over half of the body’;s construction.

The all-new 2015 Hyundai Sonata follows the lead set by the new Genesis and away from the swoopy and sharply creased styling of the model it replaces.

Having undergone extensive testing at Hyundai’;s new test center at the Nürburgring and at the Mojave Proving Ground in California, the new Sonata promises a more refined ride. It also offers a good deal more interior space where, as the latest volume model from one of the world’;s largest automakers, you’;ll find it incorporates the latest electronic safety features, infotainment technologies and creature comforts.

We’;re looking at the Korean market version here, which will be offered with 3 engine options – 4-cylinder units ranging from 2.0 liters to 2.4 and from 151 horsepower to 193 – driving the front wheels through a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. Hyundai has yet to confirm which powertrain options will be offered Stateside, but with a few minor differences, we can expect to see largely the same vehicle on the show stand at the Javitz Center next month. In the meantime you can delve into the press release below and the high-resolution images in the gallery above for a closer look.

March 24, 2014 – Hyundai Motor Company, South Korea’;s largest automaker, today unveiled the `All-new Sonata’;, a sophisticated evolution of the brand’;s long-established mid-size sedan. The all-new Sonata represents the practical application of premium Hyundai Motor technologies first introduced in the all-new Genesis, which was given its world premiere in Korea in November 2013.

The all-new Sonata’;s design concept focuses on ‘Inner Force’;, a theme that points to its evolved aesthetic and confident perfection. Premium equipment, style and status deliver a feeling typically associated with vehicles in the segment above. The all-new Sonata successfully fulfills the practical needs of drivers, while evoking a sense of confidence and class at the same time. It also represents the democratization of new technologies first developed for inclusion in the all-new Genesis, offering Modern Premium values to more customers.

“The Sonata has been playing a key role in Hyundai Motor’;s rapid growth in the global market, as well as leading the development of the Korean auto industry. We are confident that the all-new Sonata will change the landscape of the global mid-size sedan market,” Choong Ho Kim, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor, said during the all-new Sonata launching ceremony in Seoul today. “Hyundai Motor has been pursuing qualitative growth, providing innovative experiences and values to our customers, and the all-new Sonata will be at the center of these efforts.”

The all-new Sonata project began with the aim of developing a world-class premium mid-size sedan through innovation in fundamental areas, while maintaining the model’;s proud heritage. Inspiring driver confidence was an important goal for the all-new Sonata: the new model utilizes a modified Hyundai Motor platform that has been optimized to offer a dynamic driving experience. The car’;s newly designed underpinnings contribute to an improvement in suspension performance and a greater structural rigidity over the previous generation model, resulting in 41% greater torsional strength and 35% greater bending strength than the outgoing model.

The new model is 35 millimeters longer and 30 millimeters wider than the previous generation Sonata, delivering a marginal increase in exterior size but worthwhile gains in internal volume.

Advanced suspension design and active safety features such as Blind Spot Detection, Lane Departure Warning System and Advanced Smart Cruise Control, ensure a rewarding and safe driving experience. Uncompromised levels of convenience features are fitted to the all-new Sonata, providing it with the type of luxury, safety and technology equipment typically associated with cars from the segment above. A variety of premium features such as rear parking sensors, heated leather seats and rear-side curtain airbags emphasize Hyundai Motor’;s commitment to delivering value beyond expectations. Advanced multimedia systems and next-generation infotainment equipment are also fitted to the all-new Sonata.

Hyundai Motor’;s engineers concentrated on offering efficient and effective powertrains that would deliver maximum performance for the all-new Sonata. As a result the new model offers drivers impressive acceleration and economy, together with useable low and mid-range torque that provides exceptional drivability in every situation. The wide range of engines is mated to manual, automatic transmission gearboxes, and all of these drivetrain options offer high fuel efficiency and low exhaust emissions, re-emphasizing Hyundai Motor’;s continuing commitment to the global environment.

Since the Sonata badge was first introduced by Hyundai Motor in 1985, cumulative sales have almost reached 6 million units, making this model the third Hyundai Motor model ever to achieve the landmark figure. Hyundai Motor’;s previous generation Sonata was launched in 2009, embracing the brand’;s Fluidic Sculpture design philosophy. The striking design and stylish appearance of the previous generation Sonata enhanced Hyundai Motor’;s image.

The all-new Sonata, the result of 3 years of development and an investment of approximately 450 billion Won (KRW), is scheduled to be launched outside Korea in the second half of this year. Hyundai Motor targets to sell a total of 228,000 units (Korea: 63,000 / Overseas: 165,000) for this year, while aiming to expand it up to 338,000 units (Korea: 89,000 / Overseas: 249,000) next year.

Following the world premiere of the all-new Genesis luxury sedan, the all-new Sonata is the second vehicle to demonstrate Hyundai Motor’;s evolved design philosophy, Fluidic Sculpture 2.0. Fluidic Sculpture embraces the company’;s ‘Modern Premium’; brand direction and its commitment to delivering value beyond expectations.

As applied to the all-new Sonata, Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 retains the original essence of this well-received design philosophy while being further defined by core characteristics, such as simple and harmonious design with refined fluidic design elements. The all-new Sonata offers modern style through easy-to-understand and pleasing design fundamentals that are expressed through rich visuotactile colors, materials and overall levels of finish.

Exterior DesignWhile inheriting the sensational design of the previous Sonata, the all-new Sonata has evolved into a more refined, premium vehicle. Hyundai Motor designers emphasized its inner dignity, expressed through polished lines and forms.

Hyundai Motor’;s latest interpretation of Fluidic Sculpture provides the all-new Sonata with a high-class, sleek style, a confident stance, and an appearance that is in keeping with Hyundai Motor’;s pioneering family look. Ultimately, the balanced, refined styling of the all-new Sonata conveys the dynamic driving experience offered by the new model.

A single-frame premium 3D hexagonal grille is a key styling element at the front of the all-new Sonata, while refined swage lines on its flanks and futuristic features at its rear contribute to its dynamic shape. Powerful light-emitting diode (LED) daytime running lights and striking rear light clusters add to the new model’;s sophisticated appearance.

The all-new Sonata provides the luxury feel of a car from the segment above in a mid-size sedan package, conveying a sense of style and dynamism previously unavailable in a Hyundai Motor car in this class. In order to convey this sense of luxury the points of contact between the driver and car were closely examined and enhanced – one result being the high-grade materials such as leather and metal that are utilized throughout. Maximum seat comfort and convenience is provided through the use of high-end environmentally friendly materials and elegant trim details.

HMICentral to conveying the all-new Sonata’;s premium design qualities is transmitting that experience to the driver and passengers, which Hyundai Motor has achieved through the use of high-grade materials where constant physical contact with the car’;s occupants occurs. Additionally, significant attention to detail was paid to ergonomics. For example, Hyundai Motor engineers focused their attention on developing the ideal steering wheel design to ensure the best possible grip and feel for the driver. After a series of tests the dimensions and style of the wheel were altered: an overall increase in rim cross section thickness and ergonomic improvements to grip rests ensure more of the steering wheel surface is in contact with the driver. Such subtle improvements to detail enhance the driving experience of the all-new Sonata, especially at high speeds.

The all-new Sonata has also been fitted with newly configured parts, such as a redesigned steering column in order to accommodate the car’;s optimal driver-focused layout. The central console has moved away from the traditional shape and style, and vital information is now displayed in a more effective and easy-to-digest manner, in the instrument cluster facing the driver. This approach significantly improves visibility for the driver, emphasizing that Hyundai Motor cares for the drivers of its vehicles.

The switches in the all-new Sonata have been grouped depending on function and are within easy reach of the driver, facilitating quicker, safer control. Switch feel was also given rigorous consideration, both in terms of operational force and touch, in order to make locating and operating functions as easy as possible while driving. The feel and grip of every component occupants come into contact with has been improved over the previous generation model.

3. Driving Performance

The all-new Sonata sets a new standard for ride in a mid-size sedan. Extensive chassis testing and tuning set out to improve the ride characteristics of the all-new Sonata over its predecessor, with particular attention being paid to chassis rigidity. Improved twisting and bending strength have been achieved thanks to greater use of Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS), which is twice as rigid and 10 percent lighter than traditional steel, resulting in enhanced safety and driving performance.

As one of the key drivers of Hyundai Motor’;s sales, the all-new Sonata was tested in a variety of locations worldwide, including the famed Nürburgring in Germany at Hyundai Motor’;s dedicated Technical Center, and the Mojave Proving Ground in California, America, in order to maximize product competitiveness and satisfy the diverse needs of its global audience.

Reducing road noise, vibrations and enhancing driving dynamics were priorities for the all-new Sonata development team. These objectives were achieved in part through optimized suspension damping that gives occupants a soft, silent and comfortable experience. A luxurious feel is generated through exceptional ride comfort, while the thorough development of handling and steering feel allows the all-new Sonata to also offer a stable and secure ride over all road surfaces and in all driving conditions.

In order to improve ride and handling performance, there have been significant changes to the front and rear suspension, whose structure and geometry have been greatly modified to enhance responsiveness, handling and stability. The dual lower suspension arms of the rear suspension of the all-new Sonata distribute lateral forces more effectively than single arm versions, providing greater freedom to finely tune ride characteristics.

Steering feel has been further increased thanks to the development of the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) that has resulted in a larger data processing unit, increased logic control cycle and motor control speed, and greater steering column rigidity. Gentle on-center feel and agile, precise and responsive steering feel are aided by the all-new Sonata’;s Drive Mode Select function, which allows the driver to choose the best driving parameters to suit their requirements or the current road conditions.

In terms of braking, the all-new Sonata boasts superior stopping distances for a car of its class, combined with an assured, firm feel. Driver confidence is enhanced through the linear delivery of impressive braking performance, while greater comfort is ensured thanks to minimal intrusion of noise and vibration into the cabin.

Carefully-paired powertrain combinations allow the all-new Sonata to deliver improved drivability over the previous generation model. A key aim during the development of the all-new Sonata was to provide useable performance and drivability while delivering maximum economy under regularly-encountered driving conditions.

4. Safety

Body In White StiffnessAn impressive 51 percent of the all-new Sonata’;s steel is Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS), an increase of 30 percent over the previous generation model. These AHSS components are used to both increase stiffness and more effectively protect passengers, helping the all-new Sonata to achieve top-class safety ratings according to the company’;s internal tests.

The new model has been further strengthened by increasing the use of structural adhesive more than 10 times when compared with the previous generation model. The addition of dual member structures in main sections of the body has added strength too, while the prevalence of hot-stamped components has increased by 9 percent over the previous model. Notably, the hot-stamped double-section structure on the B-pillar especially contributes greatly to the excellent performance of the all-new Sonata in crash performance tests.

These changes mean that the all-new Sonata’;s torsional and bending stiffness has increased by 41 percent and 35 percent respectively, compared with its predecessor. Internal testing data suggest that the new model will score highly in official crash overlap and chassis strength tests. In addition, high rear impact performance is ensured through reinforced side and cross members that support the vehicle’;s sub-frames and strengthen sub-frame mounting points, which also improves suspension responsiveness.

High Technology for SafetyThe all-new Sonata features an abundance of advanced safety features designed to protect its occupants. A suite of airbags, including driver knee airbag, are fitted to the new model, while several advanced passive and active systems work harmoniously to ensure the all-new Sonata is one of the safest vehicles on the road.

Advanced Smart Cruise Control (ASCC) uses radar to automatically calculate the distance to cars directly ahead and behind. The system maintains a constant gap to the next vehicle and deploys the Automatic Emergency Braking system if a stationary vehicle is detected ahead – avoiding a potential collision.

Blind Spot Detection (BSD) monitors traffic around the car in the driver’;s blind spots, warning drivers of possible unseen hazards. This system notifies the driver of hidden hazards through an indicator symbol on the instrument panel and via illuminated signals on both exterior mirrors. If a driver should ignore these visual warnings and begin to change lanes, the BSD system automatically issues an audible warning.

The Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) uses the all-new Sonata’;s forward-facing sensor technology to recognize defined lanes situated ahead of the vehicle. If the LDWS detects departure from the current lane of travel, a warning signal is issued through a visual symbol on the dashboard, accompanied with an audible warning.

To ensure drivers of oncoming vehicles are not distracted by the all-new Sonata’;s headlights at night, the High Beam Assist (HBA) function automatically detects an approaching vehicle and dips the high beam headlights to reduce glare. When the system no longer detects a vehicle ahead, it re-activates the high beam headlights to provide a clearer field of vision for the driver.

In crash safety performance tests, the all-new Sonata is expected to achieve top-class results through careful design which ensures the car effectively distributes crash energy. Frontal impact forces are absorbed and distributed through the mid-section to minimize cabin distortion.

In terms of side and rear collision tests, the all-new Sonata provides high levels of occupant protection thanks to inherent strength achieved through the use of hot-stamped steel with dual layer reinforcement, and independent side airbag technology specially designed to protect occupant’;s upper bodies in the event of an accident. Pedestrian safety was also a prime consideration, resulting in the provision of a durable and weight-optimized hood structure, and a scuttle panel that offers increased head protection safeguards.

For front seat passengers, the all-new Sonata features integrated, height-adjustable seats that have been developed to maximize comfort and convenience. They are also vented to cool passengers under humid conditions, and heated to provide warmth during cold weather, faster than the previous version.

The high levels of comfort extend to rear-seat passengers who benefit from heated seats, an electric rear window blind and rear side curtain blinds – a segment-first feature. Personal reading lights provide rear passengers with directed illumination, while the new car’;s spacious interior and slim front seat backs mean there is plenty of legroom for all occupants.

A panoramic sunroof brings a sense of the outside into the cabin of the all-new Sonata, and ensures a light and refreshing atmosphere is maintained at all times. Throughout the vehicle, elegant hand-crafted details can be found, utilizing high-end environmentally-friendly materials.

Advanced vehicle infotainment features, including sophisticated next-generation multi-media systems, ensure the all-new Sonata delivers cutting-edge entertainment and connectivity to drivers and passengers. A range of options are available, starting with a 3.8″ LCD display, moving up to 8.0″ color touchscreen units, each of which utilize intuitive, clear ergonomic displays. Supporting USB, Bluetooth and iPod connectivity, the all-new Sonata also features voice recognition and smartphone integration.

Further convenience is provided by the all-new Sonata’;s Smart Trunk function. Using the vehicle’;s smart key, the system can be activated (in the user settings menu) to open the trunk automatically when the smart key is detected near the rear bumper for longer than 3 seconds. Unlike competitor systems, the Smart Trunk function does not utilize an under-fender kick-sensor, but employs a fender-mounted antenna to receive its instruction to operate, providing an illuminated and audible warning prior to opening. This allows users to keep both feet on the ground at all times during operation – more convenient and safer when both hands are full, for example.

6. NVH

Improving NVH levels over the previous generation Sonata was an important area of focus for Hyundai Motor engineers developing the all-new Sonata. A result is noticeably lower audible levels of noise for occupants of the all-new Sonata. Levels of engine and transmission NVH have been kept to a minimum through minimized acceleration noise and additional damping of the transmission mounting points.

Reduced NVH levels (dB) for the all-new Sonata:

All-newSonata

Previous generation Sonata

Idle

Steering Wheel

107

107

Floor

97

98

Acceleration Noise

51

52

Acceleration Booming

79

80

Road Noise (FRT/RR)

63/65

65/66

Audible (rumbling) road and engine (booming) noise is kept to an absolute minimum inside the all-new Sonata, thanks to soundproofing materials that have been used to reduce apertures through which noise could potentially be transmitted into the cabin. Across the available range of powertrains engineers reduced high-RPM booming, refined engine tones to provide a greater sense of smooth acceleration, and removed unwanted and intrusive additional noises.

Refined suspension damping achieves a soft, quiet and comfortable ride, creating a calm, luxurious and peaceful ambiance. Improvements to braking performance were also concentrated on reducing NVH levels, and the all-new Sonata achieves the lowest levels of braking NVH for a vehicle in its class.

The all-new Sonata benefits from a reinforced firewall that uses an integrated dual-member construction, increasing strength and improving NVH levels. Sound absorption underneath the car has also been maximized, with the addition of a specially designed under cover that utilizes glass fiber reinforced polypropylene expansion board material.

The on-road behavior of the all-new Sonata has been engineered to ensure a sophisticated and relaxing ride, achieving optimal levels of quietness for a car in its class. A soft, refined attitude with low volume NVH gives the all-new Sonata a key competitive advantage over its rivals.

7. Powertrain

The all-new Sonata offers a wide range of engine and transmission options that deliver enhanced performance. With an emphasis on practicality, the powertrains of all-new Sonata have been carefully engineered and tuned for precise power delivery and maximum refinement.

A range of MPi and GDi engines deliver maximum drivability in all driving conditions, thanks to improvements that mean plentiful torque and power are available across a wider range of engine speeds. Carefully-matched smooth-shifting transmissions ensure maximum availability of full engine output and contribute to a smooth and relaxing ride for occupants. While the all-new Sonata is equipped with 2.0 CVVL, 2.4 GDi, 2.0 LPi for the Korean market, variations will vary, depending on each market.